Sources: Dodgers contact Dan Haren

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles Dodgers have reached out to former All-Star right-hander Dan Haren, along with several other veteran pitchers, according to sources, as they try to fill out the unsettled back end of their rotation.

There appears to be mutual interest between the Dodgers, who have two starters recovering from major surgeries, and Haren, who lives in nearby Orange County and has expressed his desire to pitch on the West Coast after spending one season with the Washington Nationals.

Brad Mills/USA TODAY SportsDan Haren posted a career-worst 4.67 ERA with the Washington Nationals last season. However, the right-hander had a 3.29 ERA and 84 strikeouts in his final 15 starts.

Chad Billingsley is coming off Tommy John surgery to his right elbow, and the Dodgers don't expect him back until May or June. Josh Beckett had surgery in July to remove his top right rib in an effort to alleviate pressure on a nerve, and the Dodgers have little idea how his health will hold up.

Haren, 33, was one of the best starters in the majors from 2005-11, but last season had the worst full-season ERA (4.67) of his career. However, he rebounded strong after a short stay on the disabled list, with a 3.29 ERA and 84 strikeouts in his final 15 starts.

How seriously the Dodgers pursue Haren or any other veterans could hinge on how intent they are on signing Japanese right-hander Masahiro Tanaka, who likely will cost $100 million or more between the posting fee and player contract.

One source said the Dodgers have contacted "many" starting pitchers as they mull their options.

Bronson Arroyo, 36, who is coming off a season in which he went 14-12 with a 3.79 ERA for the Cincinnati Reds, said in radio interviews Tuesday that the Dodgers, Angels, Giants, Twins and Phillies have all called to say they are interested.

The Dodgers, the source said, also would like to re-sign third baseman Juan Uribe, who is seeking a two-year deal.

Mark Saxon is a staff writer for ESPNLosAngeles.com. He spent six years at the Orange County Register, and began his career at the Oakland Tribune, where he started an 11-year journey covering Major League Baseball. He has also covered colleges, including USC football and UCLA basketball.